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Learning Mandarin opens doors to one of the world's richest cultures.
But it also can be a challenging and sometimes frustrating goal… Especially if you’re learning alone.
Here are 7 helpful tips to make your language journey a fun, successful and rewarding one.
You can master Mandarin!
TIP #1
Learn in a structured way
Start with learning the Pinyin Alphabet to give yourself a good foundation. That’s the next lesson after this!
Then learn grammar, alongside vocabulary. Learning grammar ensures you can build correct sentences on your own, allowing you speak more and build confidence.
Work with a private tutor (contact us!) to create a customised learning plan that is tailored to your goals and level
Having the right learning material is key! We can provide recommendations on good textbooks.
TIP #2
Set a SMART Goal
New year's resolutions don’t work…
Set a S.M.A.R.T goal
(e.g. I will study Mandarin for 1 hour, 3 times per week, and pass the HSK 2 exam before Christmas)Break your goal into smaller milestones
Track your progress regularly
Celebrate the small wins
Write down your motivations for achieving your goal (your ‘WHY’ is more powerful)
Reward yourself when you reach a milestone!
TIP #3
Get into a daily rythm
Dedicate 15 minutes daily rather than long ad-hoc sessions
Create a consistent schedule that fits your lifestyle
Practice at the same time each day to build the habit
Use your calendar to schedule time and set reminders
TIP #4
Use flashcards
Use Anki's spaced repetition system for efficient memorisation (built on memory science)
Create physical flashcards and place them around your home
Review cards daily for optimal retention
Focus on characters, pronunciation, and vocabulary
The Anki Desktop App is free to use. You can load up your own cards or use online templates.
Download ANKI HSK flashcards:
journeychinese.com.au/free-hsk-resources
TIP #5
SPEAK as much as possible
Listen to native speakers to get familiar with words and accents
When you hear certain words that you understand, repeat them in conversation to practice saying it
Communicate as much as you can, even if your sentences are broken – practice makes perfect!
Join a local language exchange group to practice speaking
Join our JC Whatsapp Groups to practice speaking and writing
TIP #6
Immerse yourself in Chinese media - News, Music and TV shows. Popular shows include: ‘Nirvana In Fire’ and ‘Home with Kids’
Dine at local Chinese restaurants and try ordering dishes using your Mandarin
Attend local Chinese cultural events
Make it a goal to visit China as a tourist for a full cultural immersion experience!
IMmerse yourself in chinese culture
LAST TIP
Embrace mistakes
Mistakes are your stepping stones to fluency.
Use errors as learning opportunities
Focus on progress, not perfection
Work with a private Tutor to help correct mistakes early on, and provide you with coaching and encouragement